Integrative Medicine Hospital-Based Services

Phone: 973-971-6351

Biologically-based Practices

Biologically-based practices use natural substances such as herbs, foods, vitamins, and minerals.

Chinese Herbal Medicine Chinese herbal medicine is a 2,000 year old tradition using naturally occurring substances, such as herbs, to restore one's balance by nourishing the body. Herbs are normally combined for synergistic effects and are prescribed by an experienced herbalist. All herbs used by Atlantic Integrative Medicine practitioners are from the highest quality sources and are monitored for impurities and contaminants. For most cases, pre-made combinations of herbs are used and in more complex cases, a formula is custom-designed for the patient. After assessing the patient through an interview, and pulse and tongue examination (traditional aspects of the Chinese Medicine assessment), a formula is prescribed for a few weeks to a month. The patient is monitored at appropriate intervals and formulae are changed accordingly.

Functional Medicine Functional Medicine is a science-based field of health care incorporating the principles of patient-centered medicine; the dynamic balance of functions in a healthy biological system; the unique biochemistry of each patient; and organ function. It makes extensive use of diet, natural substances, stress reduction and exercise as pillars of a healthy system. Functional medicine includes nutritional counseling, acupressure and craniosacral therapy.

Nutrition Counseling Our nutrition counseling is based on anti-inflammatory principles. Studies have shown that inflammation is involved in most chronic conditions such as obesity, heart disease, cancer, arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, among others. Many foods, especially fruits, vegetables, herbs, spices, legumes, beans and whole grains have compounds that lower inflammation and help heal. These principles also recommend the elimination of processed foods, artificial ingredients and addition of omega-3 fatty rich foods and fruit-based sweeteners.

At Atlantic Integrative Medicine, we construct individualized plans for all our patients that include functional foods for their condition. This is based on scientific literature and is sensitive to culture, socioeconomic profile, food and environmental allergens. Our dietary recommendations are in line with those of the American Institute of Cancer Research, American Cancer Society, American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association and American Dietetic Association.